Why does my Mark Twain boat sway so much!??

Question

I have a 1978 Mark Twain boat and while im driving on the high way it will began to sway back and forth... i know its very heavy. but is there a way to control this!

Answer 1

You need heavier duty tires, and shocks on the vehicle and the trailer.  Also you need to check very closely for correct tire inflation.

The condition you are describing is called "oscilation" and it it extremely dangerous.  Causes are ..

1.  Improper tire inflation.

2.  Over loaded or improper loded trailer

3.  weak shocks on the trailer or tow vehicle.

4.  Tires not designed to handle the load

     (i.e.  Load range a or b when C is needed, etc)

I would get it to a shop immediately.  Again, this can be very dangerous.

Answer 2

I would take loaded boat, trailer & vehicle to a trailer specialty shop. Your total rig  needs to be adjusted to proper loading conditions. This is not a DIY deal. !!!

The shop will check for appropriate hitch for the tow vehicle , the tow capacity of tow vehicle  &  proper weight distribution of the load on the trailer. Trailer may be overloaded also. Any of these items may be wrong ( or combination of ) causing a danger to you , others or your assets.

   They will give you good advice well worth the money.

Answer 3

45 cal has the answer. not enough tongue weight.

Answer 4

it is not the boat it is the trailer and the way it "sits". -blurey

Answer 5

Sounds like not enought tongue weight try moving the boat forward>

Answer 6

Could be low tire pressure on the tow Vehicle also, but Id have the trailer tires checked also.

It could also be the not enough tong weight.